Meatless Monday: Make these veggie burgers on the Fourth of July

Whip a batch of these mouthwatering veggie burgers, which get fajita flavors from peppers, onion, cilantro and chili powder. The meat-free burgers taste great on a bun or a salad — you can even saute a big batch and freeze them for later use. And because they’re loaded with brown rice and chickpeas, they’re surprisingly filling.

Note: This is the first in a three-part recipe series on veggie burgers.

Cooking for a crowd Friday? Basic hot dogs and hamburgers might not cut it, especially if you have vegetarian friends.

The solution: Whip a batch of these mouthwatering veggie burgers, which get fajita flavors from peppers, onion, cilantro and chili powder. The meat-free burgers taste great on a bun or a salad — you can even saute a big batch and freeze them for later use. And because they’re loaded with brown rice and chickpeas, they’re surprisingly filling.

I love topping them with sliced avocado and, for an extra hit of heat, a drizzle of all-natural chipotle ketchup.